Reflecting on our journeys, I’m reminded of Mark Twain’s enduring words:
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.”
These words ring true no matter the era or circumstance. (In fact, they’ve been on the walls of the Classic Journeys’ office for three decades.) Travel, at its core, has always been about more than just new places—it’s about breaking down barriers and building understanding that transcends borders and time.
Universal Connections Through Travel
Whether listening to a musician in Havana, chatting with a Berber tribesman in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, or marveling at nature’s wonders alongside locals in the Galápagos, I am continually struck by the universal threads that bind us: curiosity, kindness, and a shared humanity. These experiences remind us how small the world truly is and how much we have in common, regardless of where we come from.
Travel as a Bridge, Not a Barrier
The world’s political landscape may shift, but the power of individual connection endures. Each of us has the ability to shape the image we project—one of openness, respect, and genuine curiosity. By traveling thoughtfully and engaging with people at eye level, we foster understanding and goodwill that ripple far beyond our own journeys.
On cultural walking tours, for example, the simple act of sharing stories with an olive oil maker in Portugal, an archaeologist in Sicily, or a fisherman in Iceland reveals a truth: people everywhere are fundamentally good, and bridges are built through shared experiences, not headlines.
The Ripple Effect of Thoughtful Travel
It’s easy to overlook the impact our travels have on the communities we visit. Many people and cultures rely on regenerative tourism to sustain their traditions, livelihoods, and ways of life. Our presence supports artisans, guides, family-run inns, and countless others whose stories enrich our own. When we travel with intention, we help preserve these connections for future generations.
A Timeless Invitation
No matter when or where you travel, the opportunity to build understanding and compassion is always present. Let’s continue to explore the world with open hearts and thoughtful steps. Together, we can embody Twain’s vision—showing that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about fostering lasting connections and goodwill across cultures.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Wherever your path leads next, may you continue to embrace the world, one step at a time.
Edward & Susie Piegza
Founders, Classic Journeys
The World’s Finest Walking Tours
